Manufacturing Manager

APS, a SHAPE Technologies Group company, is the leading designer and manufacturer of surface prep technologies. SHAPE is also a leading provider of ultrahigh pressure waterjet pumps, robotic cutting solutions, surface preparation technology, industrial cleaning systems, and aftermarket components that are integrated into waterjet systems worldwide. APS's products are used in end markets that include, among others, aerospace, automotive, food processing, marine and coastal industrial markets, glass, electronics, paper slitting and trimming, and stone fabricators selling into the residential and commercial construction markets. 

The APS difference can be seen in our people. With industry leading technologists, manufacturing experts, and skilled service professionals, APS team members listen to our customers to anticipate their needs and deliver technical know-how that transforms our customers’ visions into reality.

What it’s Like to Work Here.

We are a team of technology enthusiasts who pride ourselves on constantly raising the industry bar. Our world is fast paced, and customer focused. With principles, performance and an authentic passion for results deeply rooted in our daily interactions. We strive to create a trust-based environment where driving results and positive attitudes coexist. We are friendly, respectful, and motivated to deliver strong performance in everything we do.

What We Offer.

In addition to training and career advancement opportunities, we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, life insurance, paid disability insurances, education reimbursement and more.

Job Description:

The Manufacturing Manager is responsible for the full performance of APS manufacturing operations, including machine shop production, manufacturing engineering, process control, and capital investment strategy.

This role consolidates ownership of production execution and manufacturing engineering under a single leader accountable for safety, quality, delivery, cost, and continuous improvement.

The Manufacturing Manager will lead a high-mix, tight-tolerance CNC machining environment directing all machine shop personnel and manufacturing engineers. This individual will drive operational excellence through Lean Manufacturing, data-driven decision making, and strategic capital deployment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead all machine shop operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production of precision components in a high-mix, tight-tolerance manufacturing environment.
• Own and drive manufacturing performance metrics including On-Time Delivery (OTD), labor efficiency, OEE, scrap reduction, and throughput.
• Direct daily production activities, aligning schedules, resources, and priorities to meet customer demand and operational targets.
• Lead and develop manufacturing engineering and production teams, establishing clear accountability, performance expectations, and continuous improvement culture.
• Own all manufacturing process documentation, including master routers, labor standards, and work instructions to ensure accuracy in planning, costing, and execution.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, improve flow, and increase overall manufacturing efficiency.
• Identity, justify, and implement capital investments (CAPEX) in equipment, automation, and technology to enhance capacity, capability, and competitiveness.
• Manage departmental budgets, including labor, tooling, and equipment costs, ensuring alignment with financial targets and margin objectives.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Planning to ensure manufacturability, process stability, and successful product delivery.
• Ensure strict adherence to quality standards, regulatory requirements, and internal procedures, supporting a zero-defect manufacturing environment.
• Lead safety initiatives, enforce compliance with all OSHA and company safety policies, and promote a proactive safety culture.
• Provide regular operational reporting to senior leadership, including KPI performance, risks, and action plans for continuous improvement.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This role has direct supervisory responsibility for all machine shop personnel and manufacturing engineering staff, including hiring, training, performance management, and team development.

TRAVEL: Primarily local travel to suppliers and vendors as needed. Occasional travel outside the Houston area for equipment sourcing, training, or industry benchmarking.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Base Salary: $99,000-$116,000 annually
• Performance-based bonus (aligned to KPIs): Target 10%
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) plan with company matching contributions
• Paid time off (PTO) and disability insurance
• Tuition reimbursement for approved educational programs
• Ongoing career development and training opportunities

Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Extensive knowledge of CNC machining (multi-axis, mill/turn, tight tolerance work)
• Strong understanding of: Manufacturing process development, tooling, fixturing and work holding, GD&T and complex blueprint interpretation
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (QAD preferred)
• Familiarity with automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies
• Strong leadership presence with ability to drive accountability across teams
• Data-driven decision making and KPI management
• Proven ability to lead change in a production environment
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, management, or related field preferred
• Equivalent hands-on experience in high-performance manufacturing environments considered
• 10+ years in CNC machining or manufacturing operations
• 5+ years in leadership roles within a machine shop or high-mix manufacturing environment
• Proven experience managing both production and manufacturing engineering functions
• Demonstrated success driving measurable improvements in OTD, OEE, and cost reduction
• Lean Six Sigma Certification (Green Belt minimum; Black Belt preferred)

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; walk and walk with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception and ability to adjust focus.